Vital Records

In an effort to improve the transition process for offenders returning to society, DPSCS has focused on equipping offenders with vital records such as a Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) ID, Birth Certificates and Social Security Cards. Records make securing housing, applying for employment and gaining medical assistance for instance easier,facilitating a successful reentry. During FY13:

Total IDs obtained by inmates prior to their release is up 82 percent since FY10 and 22 percent since FY12 to over 15,000.

Fostering Animals in Prison

Learning compassion for another living creature can have a profound impact on offenders, as well as have a calming effect on the prison atmosphere. DPSCS has undertaken many new partnerships to foster and train dogs behind prison walls and care for horses.

DPSCS has eight dog programs at its facilities. These efforts include America’s VetDogs, which trains animals to aid wounded veterans. Canine Partners For Life is the longest running Maryland dog program that continues to turn out well-trained dogs for a Pennsylvania-based non-profit. Through Hope of Prison Education (HOPE) Hounds partnership, Roxbury Correctional Institution has trained nearly 60 adoptable dogs in three years.

DPSCS has one of nine Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation horse farms tended by pre-release offenders, who earn a Groom Elite certification upon successfully completing intensive classroom and equine care curriculum. Offenders train on all aspects of caring for horses while learning compassion and responsibility.